Launch InformationLaunch Information|
AARG holds regularly scheduled launches on the first Saturday of each month from approximately 9 AM to noon - often later if the weather is good. Launches are always subject to weather. Best-guess evaluations of launch conditions will be posted to the rocketry-austin mailing list and the AARG Launch mailing list a day or two in advance, but quite often it may not be possible to make a determination until the evening before the launch. You do not need to subscribe to the AARG-Launch list to read the status message, simply click on the link at right. AARG also maintains a list of local launches hosted by AARG and other groups. |
Instant Launch StatusClick here for instant status on the upcoming AARG launch. Note that this is not the message server for AARG, that can be found at AARG message board |
AARG has access to two fields, one of which is near Hutto on highway 79 northeast of Austin, and the other is located near Bertram off highway 29. The field near Hutto is only available in fall and winter between crops, so we switch fields around September and March. Be sure to check the launch status list to be certain of the location of a specific launch. Please read the detailed procedures for each site prior to your first visit.
The launch sites are only available at the designated times for offical AARG launches. AARG currently has no standing launch field. The current administration of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department is interpreting the park rules (created by the City Council) which prohibits BB guns, bow and arrow, and other "projectile weapons" to include model rockets, so fly at your own risk. However, to the best of our knowledge, it is legal and acceptable to fly model rockets at Old Settler's Park in Round Rock. This is one of the best locations in the area.
AARG provides model, mid, and high power launch equipment at all regular launches. Rocketeers are welcome to set up their own pads for model rocket flights. Model and high power rockets are flown from separate areas, each with its own launch control. See the Launch Control Officer if you're unsure of where to set up your pad. For field power limitations, waiver altitudes, fees, and other detailed information, refer to the notice for that specific launch.
We have access to our launch sites through the generous cooperation of the land owners. To maintain access, we must continually impress them with our careful use of the area. Be sure not to leave any trash at the site, and please pick up any particularly large or obnoxious trash that might be at the site already - particularly rocket-related trash.
You are not required to be an AARG member to observe or fly at an AARG launch.
Reasonably good weather information is available on-line, but most often the item of concern is wind - and the prevailing conditions can be difficult or impossible to determine by looking at online information. There are several local "live" weather stations you may consult to get an idea of winds in the area, but these have proven to be inaccurate in the past.
For the Hutto site:
For the Bertram site:
Date last updated: 06/24/09 - comments to webmaster@aarg.org